What rpm are you shifting?

i realize it may be a silly question but keep in mind i taught myself how to drive stick so sometimes I question if what I am doing is correct.

For the first 1k miles i shifted at ~2,000 rpm, 2.5k max. I'm at 1,500 miles and started shifting at ~3,000 - 3,500rpms. I've been pretty gentle overall but what if i wanted to shift at 4k or when I'm merging onto the freeway, I want to downshift and maybe hit 4.5-5k rpms, would this be abusive?

I have the v6 in a manual transmission. Btw, I've noticed that the engine has opened up a lot more since it was new, it feels more peppy and ready to go. Plenty of fun to drive in a 6 speed for sure, I simply want to make sure i am being gentle and not rough.

 

The redline limit on RPMs is still below what the engine can tolerate. I've got a 4cyl manual and typically wind it out to 3-4k when trying to get moving. Every now and then I wind it up to redline just to blow the cobwebs out. You're not going to kill your engine, don't worry about it.

 

The only problem you'll have with shifting hire with this engine is gas mileage.

When I first got it I was routinely running at 2-3k RPM and shifting at 2800+. First gas tank told me I was doing it wrong. I try to shift as close to 2k RPM now, but I still find she really wants to be at 2500+ to get the good power, and 3k+ is even better when getting on a freeway or getting out of a sticky situation.